Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have renewed their war of words over security and policing in the state following the recent visit of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
In a statement issued on Monday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke called on the Nigeria Police Force to ensure impartial policing before, during, and after the election, stressing that fairness and professionalism are essential to maintaining public confidence.
The governor commended the IGP’s visit, describing it as a valuable opportunity for political parties and key stakeholders to present their concerns regarding the security situation in the state.
According to Adeleke, the discussions held during the visit should serve as the basis for the immediate implementation of measures that will guarantee non-partisan law enforcement across Osun State.
“We appreciate the visit of the Inspector-General of Police and that of the Deputy Inspector-General a week earlier. The facts are now in the public domain. The IGP has heard and read submissions from both parties,” the governor said.
He further urged the Osun State Commissioner of Police to remain neutral in the investigation and prosecution of political violence cases, insisting that justice must be served regardless of political affiliation.
“We seek the arrest of anyone who breaks the law, irrespective of political affiliation. Those who commit crimes should be arrested and prosecuted. We harbour no thugs in Government House or anywhere,” Adeleke stated.
The governor also appealed to all security agencies to provide a safe and peaceful environment for voters, noting that violence and killings have no place in a democratic process. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies while emphasizing the need for fairness and professionalism.
However, the Osun APC interpreted the Inspector-General’s remarks differently, claiming they validated the party’s earlier allegations that individuals accused of criminal activities were being protected within the Osun Government House.
In a statement signed by its Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi, the APC alleged that the IGP instructed the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, to professionally investigate the claims, including any individuals who may be linked to the Government House if evidence warrants such action.
The opposition party further alleged that suspected political hoodlums had been shielded from arrest and criticised the response of the Osun State Commissioner for Information, Kolapo Alimi, describing his comments on the Inspector-General’s remarks as “misplaced” and an afterthought.
The APC accused the state government of politicising security issues and urged law enforcement agencies to carry out a comprehensive and impartial investigation into all allegations of political violence ahead of the governorship election.
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